Senior Architect - Commercial & Retail Design

Placements24; LegKraal Gate; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Retirement savings plan

Professional development support

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Architect for a fully remote role in South Africa. Lead design development for commercial and retail projects from concept to documentation, overseeing teams and coordinating with consultants to meet client briefs and sustainability goals.

The ideal candidate has 10+ years in commercial/retail architecture, SACAP registration, and proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite. Remote collaboration is essential.

Qualifications

• Professional qualification in Architecture (B.Arch or M.Arch).
• SACAP registration with the South African Council for the Architectural Profession.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design development process from concept to construction documentation.
• Coordinate with internal teams and external consultants to ensure design integrity.
• Ensure compliance with building codes, zoning laws, and sustainability standards.

Skills

Conceptual design

Leadership

Client relations

Remote collaboration

Education

B.Arch / M.Arch

SACAP registration

Tools

AutoCAD

Revit

SketchUp

Adobe Creative Suite

Job description

About the Role

Our client, an award-winning architectural firm celebrated for its innovative and client-focused designs in the commercial and retail sectors, is seeking a talented Senior Architect to join their progressive and fully remote team. This role is pivotal in leading design projects from conceptualization through to construction documentation, ensuring creative excellence, technical proficiency, and adherence to client briefs and sustainability principles. The ideal candidate will possess a strong portfolio demonstrating expertise in designing engaging commercial spaces, retail environments, and mixed‑use developments. You will mentor junior architects and collaborate closely with a diverse range of clients and consultants. This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to high‑profile projects and drive design innovation within a leading firm, all while enjoying the flexibility of a remote work environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design development process for commercial and retail projects, from concept to completion.
• Develop innovative and aesthetically pleasing architectural designs that meet client objectives and regulatory requirements.
• Prepare high-quality design presentations, drawings, and specifications.
• Coordinate effectively with internal teams, external consultants (structural, MEP, etc.), and contractors.
• Ensure designs comply with building codes, zoning laws, and sustainability standards.
• Oversee the preparation of construction documentation and assist with tendering processes.
• Mentor and guide junior architectural staff, fostering a collaborative and creative team environment.
• Review shop drawings and construction progress to ensure design intent is maintained.
• Manage project timelines and contribute to budget adherence from a design perspective.
• Stay current with architectural trends, materials, and sustainable design practices.

Requirements

• Professional qualification in Architecture (B.Arch or M.Arch) and registration with SACAP (South African Council for the Architectural Profession).
• A minimum of 10 years of post-graduate experience in architectural practice, with a significant focus on commercial and retail design.
• Proven experience in leading design teams and managing complex architectural projects.
• Expert proficiency in architectural design software, including AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite.
• Strong understanding of building construction methods, materials, and regulatory frameworks.
• Excellent conceptual design, visualization, and communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to manage client relationships and stakeholder expectations.
• Experience with sustainable design principles and green building certifications is highly desirable.
• Self‑motivated, organized, and capable of managing workload effectively in a remote setting.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package reflective of your experience and expertise.
• As this is a fully remote position, you will benefit from significant flexibility in your working arrangements.
• The company provides comprehensive health benefits, a retirement savings plan, and generous opportunities for professional development, including support for further certifications and learning.

Join an innovative and collaborative team shaping the future of commercial and retail architecture from anywhere in South Africa.